aug course

August Start Course

The Training Section ran an August Start course with adults and children, nearly 30 took part. Amy takes up the story.

On the 13th of August, Notts County Sailing Club began to get busier and busier. Many children from ages 8-14 started walking up to the club with IKEA bags and sailing bags ready for the week ahead. At precisely 9:30, briefing began with an introduction to the RYA sailing course and everyone was divided into their groups ready to start sailing. There were 23 children by the end of the morning as we all set off for a few quick exercises to get started.

The topper group were shortly divided into another group consisting of the older children who were more experienced sailors. As the afternoon drew on, all the leaders quickly identified everyone’s strong points and things to work on which they targeted to improve.

Tuesday was a quieter day so groups were put to the challenge of coping with less wind. After lunch, which filled everyone up thanks to our galley cook Paulene, everyone got out their RYA logbooks to see what they could do to get the certificate for a higher level.

From Wednesday to Friday, gusts were very high at least four-eight. Many coped well though with time to practise capsize drills (some had a few go’s at this!) One funny moment was when six toppers all capsized at once, which put our excellent safety boat team to work.

By the end of the week, many children and adults were very pleased with the progress achieved and the course ended with an awards ceremony. Kindly, a few anonymous parents put together chocolates and sweets for the children and leaders. Cake was also provided. All children went home happy and proud of what they had achieved over the week.

Written by Amy Hinsliff-Smith

Pictures provided by Dave Eberlin